This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together in a rich and satisfying dish. With succulent shrimp, tender spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this pasta is a wholesome, quick dinner that’s packed with protein, veggies, and delicious tomato sauce. It’s light, yet hearty enough to be a filling meal, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or any time you’re craving something fresh and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a one-pan dish that’s quick, healthy, and full of bright flavors. The juicy shrimp pair perfectly with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the earthiness of the spinach, all tossed together with al dente pasta and a flavorful garlic-infused sauce. It’s a balanced meal that offers a good mix of protein, veggies, and carbs, without being overly heavy. Plus, it only takes about 25 minutes to make from start to finish—ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
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1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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2 cups spinach, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
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Stir in the cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
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Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until everything is well-coated.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4 servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the dish for a cheesy, savory finish.
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Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase the nutrition and flavor.
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Lemon Zest: For an added citrusy burst, sprinkle some lemon zest over the dish before serving.
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Spicy Version: If you like a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño when cooking the garlic.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this dish. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the pasta for any shape you prefer, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can cook the pasta, shrimp, and sauce ahead of time and combine everything when ready to serve. Just store the components separately and toss together when you’re ready to eat.
4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and add more vegetables like mushrooms or tofu for protein. You can also add a can of chickpeas for extra texture and protein.
5. Can I use fresh spinach instead of chopped spinach?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just be sure to chop it into smaller pieces so it wilts evenly and integrates well into the dish.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
To make the dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped jalapeño or other hot pepper.
7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh Roma tomatoes or any other variety you have on hand. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and cook them until they soften.
8. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery if left too long on the heat.
9. Can I add more garlic to this dish?
Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add more cloves to the recipe. Just be sure not to burn the garlic when sautéing, as it can become bitter.
10. Can I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can use coconut milk as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream, though the flavor will be slightly different. It will still add creaminess to the dish.
Conclusion
Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, spinach, and shrimp in a creamy, garlicky sauce. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, as it’s easy to make, nutritious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving a light dinner or a satisfying dish full of protein and veggies, this pasta will not disappoint. Make it today for a fresh, flavorful meal that everyone will love!
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Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta
This Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that combines fresh shrimp, tender spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a garlic-infused sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a fresh, light meal. Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is full of vibrant flavors that make every bite a delight!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups spinach, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
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Cook shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add veggies: Stir in cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Cook for 3-4 minutes until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
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Combine pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
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Season: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat evenly.
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Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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For extra flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top before serving.
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Add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
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Add lemon zest for a refreshing citrus burst before serving.
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For more spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeño when cooking the garlic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
